Croatia set for another record year in tourism

Croatia enjoyed a record breaking year in tourism in 2012, with tourist numbers increasing by 5 per cent, putting the country in top place for tourism in the Mediterranean. It is now predicted that Croatia is on track to repeat the success of last year, according to the Croatian National Tourist Board.

Tourism boosted Croatia’s gross domestic product in 2012, bringing in 7 billion Euros from foreign tourists, and director of the Croatian National Tourist Board Meri Matesic is confident that 2013 will be just as successful a year, if not better, for tourism. “2012 was a fantastic year for Croatian tourism but it was also a year of eye openings since we cannot just pat ourselves on the back and say that the job is done,” said Mr Matesic.

“Our task now is to continue this growth with even better services, wider variety of accommodation choices, more exciting events and even more memorable experiences not only during summer months and not only on our coast because we have just as much to offer in continental tourism. This is the year when we invite you to discover all of Croatia, any time of year, for any age and any occasion, “he added.

Overnight stays in Croatia grew by 7.8 per cent last year and total revenue brought in by tourism grew by 14 per cent compared with 2011. Tourism is expected to grow again this year due to factors such as Croatia entering the EU, and uncertainties in Greece leading people to search out new destinations in Europe.